Autumn Sangria Encore azalea (Photo by Allen Owings)

Looking for some of the best of the multi-seasonal flowering azaleas? Look no further than the Encore azaleas – the “azalea that knows no season.”

Encore azaleas were born and bred in Louisiana by horticulturist Buddy Lee, of Independence. With almost 30 varieties now in the trade, you can select Encore azaleas for dwarf, intermediate and taller growth habits.

With a wide range of flower colors available, Encore azaleas reliably bloom in spring and fall. In some years, you will see occasional blooms on some varieties in summer and fall.

Azaleas prefer a filtered sun location with light afternoon shade, especially in summer. Landscape beds need to be well-drained with acidic soil.

Encore azaleas do best when planted in the fall and mulched with pine straw.

Allen Owings
Rick Bogren